IELTS tests all four language skills – listening, reading,
writing and speaking. The Speaking test is a face-to-face interview
with a certified Examiner. It is interactive and as close to a
real-life situation as a test can get.
Research shows that IELTS motivates test-takers to develop real and
well-rounded English rather than learning by rote. This means your
understanding of English is improved and valid for real life in an
English-speaking country.
International English
IELTS recognises both
British and American English in terms of spelling, grammar and
choice of words. It also incorporates a mix of native speaker
accents from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK and US in the
Listening component.
International content
The IELTS approach
is recognised as being fair, reliable and valid to all candidates,
whatever their nationality, cultural background, gender or special
needs. The test questions are developed by a network known as the
IELTS item writers in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, UK and the
US. They are based on real life sources (for example,
advertisements, books, newspapers and company policies), so
ensuring that they are always fit for purpose.
International partners
IELTS is owned by a
global partnership of education and language experts: the
British
Council, IDP: IELTS
Australia and the Cambridge English
Language Assessment . These bodies are
dedicated to academic excellence, cultural understanding, student
recruitment and creating success worldwide.
International consultation
IELTS has been
developed in close consultation with academics, professional bodies
and immigration authorities from around the world.
Choose from more than 800 locations
worldwide
IELTS tests are offered up to four times a
month in over 800 test venues in more than 130 countries. The
cost of taking the test is set locally and payable in the local
currency, making registration more convenient for candidates.
Results are issued to candidates 13 calendar days after the test.
Official IELTS Test centres can send Test Report Forms directly to
your organisation or institution (provided it has been nominated by
the candidate), either by mail or as an electronic download.
For more information, see Frequently
asked questions or download the Information
for candidates booklet (PDF,
935KB).
